Mol Lecture #20 (very short)

Question 1

Sexual Reproduction Review

Answer 1

• Process where we produce new offspring genetically related to but genetically distinct from the 2 parents.

Question 2

Gametes v.s. Germ cells v.s. Somatic Cells

Answer 2

• Somatic cells are most of the cells in our body. They have 46 chromosomes in G1/G0. They are said to be diploid because they have 2 versions of each chromosome type. (Also refer to these as 2n, where n= the number of chromosome types for the organism (ex. Humans: n=23)).

Question 3

Homologous Chromosomes

Answer 3

• If you have homologous chromosomes, it basically means they’re (cells) diploid
• Germ cells are also 2n, but they are not considered somatic cells. These are specialized cells that produce gametes.

Question 4

Gametes

Answer 4

• Gametes are cells used in sexual reproduction. They are haploid and possess 1 version of each chromosome type.

Question 5

Gametes versus somatic cells (examples)

Answer 5

• Human 1n: 23/ 2n: 46
• Australian Jack Jumper Ant 1n:/ 1 2n: 2
• Common Adders Tongue 1n: 600/ 2n: 1200